Friday, May 06, 2011

Death Tsunami?

Here is a video from Lovett H. Weems, Jr. who recently spoke to the UMC Council of Bishops. Weems gives some startling information about the realities of the future of the UMC. He also challenges the UMC to "Reset and Refocus" itself before we are no more. Take a look.

Lovett H. Weems, Jr. - UMC Realities from Lewis Center on Vimeo.



What do you think about Weems predictions? What do we as United Methodists need to discern from these prophetic words. Please comment.

Tuesday, May 03, 2011

Conflicted

I woke up yesterday morning to some historical news...the news about Osama bin Laden's CIA/Navy Seal lead death and burial. In shock, I watched as young Americans took to the streets to demonstrate their glee over the death of this criminal. (I hope there is more to it than that.) Then I began to wonder about my shock, and about why I was not feeling jubilant. It was reported that the New York Daily News headline was "ROT IN HELL."

What I'm saying is that I am conflicted. On the one hand, I appreciate justice for all those persons whom bin Laden has hurt, killed, maimed, and morally destroyed. On the other, I am saddened that this kind of justice is required in our world. Today, after some time for this news to sink in, my response is prayer. I pray for the world, that we can realize what we are doing to each other and to our planet. I pray that God forgives us for our hate, bigotry, greed, and malice. I pray that the light of love can overtake the shouts of U...S...A., and that we can learn another way to express our closure: with closure in this prayer:

Our God, in heaven, great is your name,
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done,
on earth as it is where you are.
Give us what we need to live this day.
Forgive us our sins, and enable us we forgive others.
Let temptation not overtake us, but deliver us from evil.
Because this world is yours.
All power is yours.
All glory is yours...forever. Amen.